TENSION LINK LOAD CELLS
High-Accuracy Tension Load Cells Made in the USA for Industrial Force Measurement
FEATURES
Optional configurations & features include:
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Capacities of 1000 LBF through 1M LBF
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Hermetically sealed versions available
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Integral cable or connector versions available
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Custom capacities available
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
Tension link load cells are engineered to provide precise, reliable force measurement in applications where loads are applied in tension. Designed to install inline with cables, chains, shackles, and lifting assemblies, they deliver accurate load monitoring for cranes, rigging, structural testing, calibration systems, and other demanding industrial environments.
At MSNST, our tension link load cells are manufactured for durability and long-term performance, with capacities ranging from 1,000 lbf to 1 million lbf. Available in stainless steel construction with hermetically sealed and custom-configured options, these sensors are built to perform in harsh operating conditions while maintaining exceptional accuracy and repeatability.
Whether you're monitoring lifting loads, verifying structural integrity, or calibrating weighing systems where traditional test weights are impractical, our tension link load cells provide a dependable and efficient solution. Our engineering team can also customize capacity, output, connectors, and environmental protection to meet your application's exact requirements.
COMMON APPLICATIONS
Whether you're performing routine load monitoring or testing high-capacity equipment, tension link load cells provide dependable performance in demanding industrial environments.
Common applications include:
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Crane Load Monitoring – Measure lifting forces to improve operational safety and prevent overloading.
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Wire Rope Testing – Verify cable tension during installation, maintenance, and performance testing.
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Marine & Offshore Equipment – Monitor loads on mooring lines, winches, and lifting systems in harsh environments.
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Structural Testing – Measure tensile forces during material, bridge, and structural load testing.
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Material Handling Systems – Track loads throughout industrial lifting and conveying operations.
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Rigging & Lifting Assemblies – Integrate directly into shackles, chains, and lifting equipment for accurate inline force measurement.
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT TENSION LINK
1
Capacity
Select a tension link load cell with a rated capacity that exceeds your maximum expected load while maintaining a suitable safety factor. Oversizing the sensor too much can reduce measurement resolution, while undersizing may compromise safety and accuracy.
2
Accuracy
Determine the level of accuracy your application requires. Testing and calibration applications often demand higher precision than routine load monitoring. Selecting the appropriate accuracy class helps ensure reliable and repeatable measurements.
3
Environmental Conditions
Consider where the tension link will operate. Outdoor, marine, washdown, or high-temperature environments may require stainless steel construction, hermetic sealing, or additional environmental protection to ensure long-term performance.
SPECIFICATIONS
Construction | Stainless Steel |
Example Capacities US LBF | 1000 LBF ; 5K LBF ; 10K LBF ; 50K LBF ; 100K LBF ; 500K LBF ; 1M LBF |
Example Capacities Metric kN | 4 kN ; 22 kN ; 44 kN ; 222 kN ; 444 kN ; 2224 kN ; 4448 kN |
Excitation Voltage | 10V–15V |
Excitation Voltage
AC / DC | 2mV / V | 0V–5V, 4mA–20mA, 3mV / V (customer preference) |
Temperature Range
(additional ranges optional) | -65°F — 250°F | (-53°C — 121°C) |
Bridge Resistance | 350Ω | (additional resistances available based on customer preference) |
Insulation Resistance | 5000 MΩ |
Accuracy & Precision | Linearity: 0.10% FS | Repeatability: 0.05% FS | Zero-Balance: 0.10% FS |
Maximun Load | Safe: 150% | Ultimate: 300% |
Please note that specifications or results may vary as we strive to improve our products. Additional information including dimensions and technical drawings available upon request.
